July 10, 2012 
Check the time. Watch the weather. Track your altitude. Now, find your way home.
Expected for availability in fall 2012, fenix is Garmin’s latest solution for outdoor enthusiasts who want to go (even farther) off the beaten track. Mountaineers, hikers, cyclists and backpackers can rejoice in fenix’s multiple functions, including navigation, tracking, sensory (altimeter, barometer, compass) and performance features. The watch’s high-strength housing, scratch resistant display and durable build means outdoors people can do what they do – drag fenix across rock faces, plunge it into snow, take a ride with it on the pavement – without worrying they’ll damage yet another piece of gear.
Features
Navigation
The navigational toolset of the fenix mimics that of a handheld GPS unit, and allows users to plan trips and create routes, record waypoints and record GPS bread crumb trails. The watch is also compatible with a desktop application, BaseCampTM, which allows the person wearing the watch to share his or her adventures with family and friends. Equipped with both ANT capabilities and Bluetooth® wireless technologies, fenix can share tracks, waypoints and more with other compatible Garmin devices.
ABC’s
fenix really is the all-in-one wristwatch. Equipped with an altimeter, barometer and compass, this watch uses its GPS receiver to auto-calibrate these sensors, as well as set the time based on location. Users can pair the fenix with tempeTM, Garmin’s new external temperature sensor for an extremely accurate temperature reading.
Performance
For users who enjoy fitness activities off the beaten track, fenix also measures distance, pace and calories. By having a way of tracking calories burned, adventurers could also have a better understanding of how to refuel properly after a long day out exploring. Athletes can pair the fenix with Garmin’s premium heart rate monitor for heart rate info, while the speed/cadence sensor will help cyclists measure distance, speed and cadence.
Built to Endure
fenix is built to endure the toughest outdoor conditions:
- a large LCD display with LED backlight and a robust polyurethane wristbands
- waterproof to 50 meters
- battery life of up to 50 hours in GPS mode (depends on settings) and up to six weeks in watch mode
- alarms, tones, vibration alerts, timer, stopwatch
- world clock with the ability to display several times zones at once
Garmin fenix is expected to be available in fall 2012 and will have a suggested retail price of $399.99 USD. tempe is an optional accessory and has a suggested retail price of $39.99 USD.The polyurethane wristband will be available in olive or orange and an optional leather wristband can be added.
When will the Fenix be available in Australia?
Looks like the Garmin Australia website doesn’t give a clear date on when it will be available, but it is featured. I would look for it in the fall of this year, or inquire with Garmin Australia or a local retailer. http://www.garmin.com/au/
I need to get me one of these. Be nice to have directions just right on your wrist. It would sure make getting lost be a difficult task.